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HomeMy WebLinkAbout11/7/2023 Item 6a, January-Courter Kannyn January < To:E-mail Council Website Subject:Re: November 7th City Council Meeting Public Comment- Parking This message is from an External Source. Use caution when deciding to open attachments, click links, or respond. I know the councils major goal is to reduce car use. I would like to point out these changes down town are not causing people to drive less, they hey causing people to drive downtown less. In fact, I know several people commuting to other downtowns to enjoy what they offer, so now they are driving more. On Nov 6, 2023, at 8:42 PM, Kannyn January <kannyn@shopambiance.com> wrote: To whom it may concern: I am writing on behalf of my fellow downtown business owners, my clients, my friends and my community. Our vibrant downtown has not been the same for many years and I am concerned about what the next 12 months will hold. My husband and I have owned our business for almost 20 years and love our downtown. As some of you know I have had a lot of questions over the last few weeks. I have been trying to get the full picture on the costs associated with our current parking and future parking plans. As a business owner, if I need to do a new project, I have to plan for it, save, cut costs and prioritize spending. I couldn’t charge my clients double and expect to stay in business. I guarantee there are areas to save, things that could be cut and other avenues for revenue that have not been fully realized. According to city officials, we have allocated 2 million already to the Palm structure from our general fund so why wouldn’t we allocate more if that’s what is needed? When I supported the passing of Measure G, the direct ballot measure wording was for the money to,”retain local businesses.” Now over 80 local businesses have come out to say the current parking rates, extended times and the fact that the technology is far from user friendly is impacting their businesses. Some have even said they would close their doors if this continues. You have the honor and privilege to make a change, to be known not just for an environmentally friendly city, not just the happiest city but also a business friendly city that supports and listens to its community members. I implore you to consider sitting in our shoes and think how you might feel if you owned a downtown business that was being impacted by ever increasing parking rates. Thank you for your time and thoughtful consideration on this matter. Sincerely, Kannyn January-Courter 1 CEO Ambiance Leadership First Consulting C 805.709.2454 P 805.540.3380 www.shopambiance.com @shopambiance @ambiancepaso “If you are not willing to risk the unusual, you will have to settle for the ordinary.” -Jim Rohn 2